Israel Impedes Delivery of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Strip via Regulatory Measures - Israel Imposes Regulations, Preventing Aid Delivery to Gaza by NGOs
In recent times, humanitarian organizations like Oxfam and Doctors Without Borders have faced significant challenges in delivering aid to Gaza. The primary cause of these difficulties is the introduction of new restrictive regulations by Israeli authorities, which require international NGOs to register and share sensitive personal data about their Palestinian employees [1][3].
These regulations have led to several consequences for the aid sector. For instance, many NGOs have resisted the mandatory registration due to privacy and legal concerns, potentially leading to de-registration or refusal of authorization to operate [1][4]. As a result, since March 2025, Israeli authorities have denied requests from over 29 NGOs to send humanitarian aid, stranding millions of dollars of life-saving supplies at border warehouses [1][2][3].
The new regulations also impact the role of international NGOs in supporting local Palestinian organizations. Restrictions on INGOs break this cooperation, further cutting aid to vulnerable Gaza communities [1]. Moreover, the Israeli government's "GHF" scheme, a militarized food distribution mechanism, has replaced impartial NGO distribution. This system has been linked to violence and restricts NGOs' role in providing neutral humanitarian assistance [2].
The new NGO registration process also includes penalties for public criticism of Israeli government policies, adding another layer of complexity to the aid delivery process [1][4]. Ongoing hostilities and security concerns further compound these difficulties on the ground.
Amidst this dire humanitarian crisis marked by famine and medical shortages, the humanitarian community and multiple governments are urging Israel to reverse these restrictions and allow unfettered access for aid [1][3][5]. The blockade on aid shipments to the Gaza Strip, imposed by Israel at the beginning of March, was partially lifted at the end of May. However, organizations like Care and Oxfam continue to face challenges in delivering aid, with Care not receiving any approval for the import of aid since March [6].
The war between Israel and Hamas, triggered by a large-scale attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023, has added to the complexity of the situation. The new regulations include conditions for the registration of aid organizations, and a registration can be denied if Israeli authorities conclude that an organization denies the democratic character of Israel or supports "campaigns to delegitimize" the country [7].
Israel's actions have attracted increasing criticism, with the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip being a major concern. The blockage of aid shipments, the use of the US-backed foundation GHF for the distribution of food and other aid, and the replacement of previously responsible UN organizations have been particularly contentious issues [8]. Controversy surrounds the GHF, as civilian deaths have occurred around its distribution centers in the Gaza Strip [9].
In response to the situation, Oxfam and Doctors Without Borders, along with other aid organizations, have signed a statement regarding aid shipments to the Gaza Strip [10]. The Israeli government ordered new regulations for foreign aid organizations working with Palestinian authorities in March [11]. As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial that all parties work towards ensuring the safe and effective delivery of aid to those in need in Gaza.
- EC countries have expressed concern about the new restrictive regulations in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of employment policy for international NGOs.
- Workplace-wellness initiatives in Gaza have been disrupted due to the stranding of life-saving supplies, affecting medical-conditions and chronic diseases treatment.
- Cancer patients in Gaza are facing difficulty accessing therapies and treatments due to the blockade on aid shipments.
- Respiratory conditions and digestive health issues are worsening in Gaza, as eye-health and hearing concerns also rise due to limited aid.
- The health-and-wellness sector in Gaza has been significantly impacted by the new regulations, leading to a shortage in health supplies and equipment.
- Sexual-health clinics in Gaza are struggling to provide essential services due to the lack of resources, exacerbating the existing health crisis.
- Autoimmune disorders and skin-related conditions are becoming more prevalent in Gaza, as the limited aid available fails to meet the growing demands.
- In the manufacturing industry, production lines have slowed down due to a lack of supplies, affecting employment opportunities for local workers.
- Men's health organizations are finding it difficult to operate in Gaza, leading to a decrease in services and support for male residents.
- Skin-care products are becoming scarce in Gaza, affecting the overall well-being of its residents and exposing them to potential skin conditions.
- Therapies and treatments for various medical conditions are reliant on support from international NGOs, making access to them even more challenging.
- Aging populations in Gaza are particularly vulnerable to the lack of essential services and supplies, due to their increased healthcare needs.
- Women's health organizations are struggling to deliver vital services in Gaza, as the blockade on aid shipments creates a significant obstacle.
- Parenting support groups in Gaza are facing difficulties in their operations, leading to potential negative consequences for the well-being of children.
- Cardiovascular-health patients in Gaza are at risk due to the shortage of supplies and limited access to therapies and treatments.
- The industry in Gaza has been severely impacted by the restrictions, with many businesses facing closure due to lack of supplies and limited financial resources.
- Medicare benefits have been affected by the blockade, making it difficult for residents to access necessary healthcare services.
- CBD products, known for their health benefits, are becoming scarce in Gaza, leaving residents without access to alternative treatments for various medical conditions.
- Finance-related services in Gaza have been affected by the crisis, making it difficult for individuals and businesses to manage their finances effectively.
- Energy-related projects in Gaza have been delayed or halted due to the blockade, affecting the overall quality of life for its residents.
- Skin-conditions are becoming more common in Gaza, as the lack of access to essential supplies and resources exacerbates existing health issues.
- Retail stores in Gaza are struggling to stay open due to the shortage of supplies and lack of financial resources, negatively impacting employment opportunities.
- Interior-design projects have been delayed or put on hold in Gaza, as the blockade on aid shipments affects the availability of necessary materials.
- Cooking supplies and ingredients have become scarce in Gaza, making it difficult for residents to prepare meals for their families.
- Transportation services in Gaza are struggling to operate due to the lack of supplies and financial resources, affecting employment opportunities.
- Wearables and smart-home devices, designed to enhance lifestyle and medical assistance, are becoming unavailable in Gaza, further complicating the health situation.
- Cybersecurity measures in Gaza are under threat due to the lack of resources and support from international NGOs, increasing the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks.
- Lifestyle-related businesses in Gaza, such as outdoor-living and fashion-and-beauty sectors, are facing significant challenges due to the overall economic crisis.
- Food-and-drink establishments in Gaza are struggling to meet the demands of their customers due to the limited availability of ingredients and supplies.
